Chapter 3: Escape
That night, there was a feast for some poor girl's birthday. Arina felt sorry for the girl, for she knew of the king's gift, having a turn herself before. The gift he only gave to virgins.

Mikala started singing as Arina ran down the stairs to the dungeon. She had to get there in time. She slammed the door open, nearly colliding with Alda, her sister.

Careful, Arina. What if I were Zane? I would have died! Go down the stairs more slowly. We still have time, her sister reprimanded her as they pulled the grate out of the wall.

Alda gave Arina a boost onto a rock jutting out the wall strategically. Arina made her way up the wall, steeping on rocks purposly positoned like that.

When she got to the rafters, she unconciously made the motion for picking up her skirts, only to realize that she was wearing suede pants and a tight, longsleeved suede shirt. She suddenly felt uncomfortable at the massive amount of cleavage showing. She tugged her shirt up and continued walking along the piece of wood underneath her.

She reached the point above the cell, looked down and held her breath. There sitting on the bench and smiling up at her, was the blonde elf.

Suddenly, she heard the chorus of music swell up, so loud it reached down into the dungeons.

It's time to fly, fly away,
Come what may,
Fly like an eagle,
Just fly, fly away

She threw down the rope into the cell and another rope outside the cell, hoping they were strong enough to climb. Their wounds were not completely healed yet.

Fortunely, everyone was strong enough to climb up and slide down. Arina led them through the grate and pointed them in the direction of the cave.

Get there before dawn, and stay down. We will come when we can, the girl whispered.

When all were through, Alda helped her replace the grate, then she changed and headed back to the girl's party, sure the girl was not enjoying it about now.

On the way back, she stopped by a room with baby toys strewn about. In the bed lay a four year old boy, with blonde hair, his blue eyes closed in sleep.

Sleep, my son, she whispered. For tomorrow will be a busy day.

Legolas and Nimrome finally stumbled through the brush and finally reached the cave, collapsing just inside. They had been running for nearly three hours without stopping, and their abused bodies demanded a rest.

Legolas counted. Everyone had arrived safely, thanks for the elven sign for safety carved on top of the doorway.

He leaned his head against the wall. He was no longer thinking about his surroundings, but instead of curly blonde hair and sapphire eyes. Of a young human girl.

He was mildly surprised to see food thrust into his hands and a command to eat. He did so, but continued to think of Arina.

Dawn was creeping near, and Legolas knew that they would have to move soon or they would be found. That was the last thing they wanted.

Miraculously, no searchers came their way. They had moved back into the deep part of the cave.

Later that night, Legolas spotted Arina making her way over to the cave. She gave them food and stood at the mouth of the cave while they ate.

Legolas came up behind her when he had finished eating.

When are we going? He asked.

We are going when everyone is finished eating and the sun sets completely. I will lead you, she said quietly.

Thank you, Lady Arina, Legolaas responded.

It appears you know my name, but yours I know not, Arina replied.

Forgive me, I am Legolas Thranduilion, Prince of Mirkwood, at your service, he said, bowing slightly to the beautiful girl.

It is wonderful to meet you Prince Legolas, she answered, curtsying slightly to the noble.

A/N: Okay, I hope this format is easier to read. Thank you maz, who pointed this slight error to me. I've also decided to cut this chapter in half, as I had to rewrite it all. Therefore, I am taking off the next chapter and replacing it. Thank you for your patience.

Jade Limill